Community Based Rehabilitation

A ray of hope through SHGs

Through a community-based rehabilitation approach, survey was conducted in two panchayats for identification and rehabilitation of People with Disabilities (PWD) in the remote district of Dhemaji, Assam (2011-2013). This was done through partnership with Rural Volunteers Centre (RVC), Akajan village. The objective was to create a data base of the PWDS in the two identified panchayats, forming of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and providing mobility support to the individuals to attend the SHG meetings. At the individual level, support also provided to individuals for medical assessment, diagnosis and for suitable therapy and/or assistive equipment. 107 people with disability identified and out of them, only 12 persons had government issued ID cards and very few had access to proper medical facilities. Six self-help groups were formed, monthly meetings held and bank accounts opened by the groups. A disability focus was imparted into RVC’s primary work of flood relief and rehabilitation in the area (SESTAA, Oct 2013).

Empowerment through awareness

A community based rehabilitation project was started in 2014 by Prerona in 10 villages in and around Cinnamara Tea Estate of Jorhat District, Assam. Financial assistance was provided by SESTAA for engagement of the personnel involved in the project, and for various activities and other contingency expenses. Regular activities undertaken are, awareness-raising; training for prevention, early indentification of disability and home-based care; organising health camps, distribution of aids and appliances, vocational training and providing access to therapist and special educators (SESTAA, January, 2014).